British Gas has issued urgent advice for households across the UK to stockpile essential supplies, including at least three days' worth of medicine, as a severe snow storm continues to batter the nation.
Met Office Issues Amber Warnings for Scotland
The call to action comes as the Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for Scotland, effective Tuesday, 6 January 2026. The forecaster warns that some areas are set for significant disruption, including likely power cuts. The alert highlights a high risk of travel delays on roads, with the potential for vehicles and passengers to become stranded. Rail and air travel are also expected to face delays and cancellations.
There is also a strong chance that some rural communities could become completely cut off due to the conditions. The Met Office further cautions that injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces are likely, and untreated pavements and cycle paths may become impassable.
Essential Advice for Households and Drivers
In response to the severe forecast, British Gas is advising the public to take immediate steps to ensure their safety and comfort. The energy firm recommends having at least three days' worth of food and essentials stored in an easy-to-reach part of the home.
This emergency kit should include critical items such as:
- All necessary medicines
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food and snacks
- Extra blankets for warmth
Additionally, households should keep a torch, batteries, and a phone charger close by in case of power outages.
For those who may need to drive, British Gas offers specific winter motoring guidance. It suggests keeping de-icer, scrapers, wiper fluid, and anti-freeze readily available. Carrying jump leads in the boot is also wise in case a vehicle fails to start in the cold.
Staying Safe During the Winter Snap
The Met Office's primary advice is to avoid driving in these dangerous conditions if at all possible. For essential journeys, considering alternative forms of transport is strongly recommended to ensure personal and public safety.
If driving is unavoidable, motorists are urged to follow critical safety steps:
- Use dipped headlights for visibility.
- Accelerate gently, using low revs and changing to higher gears quickly.
- Start in second gear to minimise wheel slip.
- Maintain a safe, steady speed and keep a generous distance from other vehicles.
- Use a low gear for going downhill and avoid braking unless necessary.
- If skidding occurs, steer into the skid, keep hands on the wheel, and avoid slamming on the brakes.
British Gas also advises drivers to prepare their vehicles by having brakes, heaters, tyres, and windscreen wipers checked before winter travel. Keeping your fuel tank at least half full during snowy conditions provides an extra buffer. For any journey, packing food, water, a torch, a phone and charger, and blankets is a crucial precaution.
This coordinated advice from a major energy provider and the national weather service underscores the serious impact expected from the ongoing winter storm, urging the public to prioritise preparedness and caution.
